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they whip about.  They are led and directed, with a whistle, by a “king” who wears a black suit, and carries a briefcase. 

Another band in black outfits with widespread wings is the “werewolves” (Cr. lou garou).  Individual members have names, such as “Lucifer” (PH301).

There are several bands of Indians, with feathers, red face paint and tomahawks (PH307–9).  Others wear Mexican type hats (Cr. bolivar) (EH315).  Some bands have commercial sponsors, for instance Barbancourt rum (EH315).  Some individual maskers participate independently.  The teenage boy (PH300) wears a mask he made of orange and grapefruit peels.

Reportedly, on Mardi Gras afternoon, the kings of the various bands dance at the presidential palace and are given money.

In the evening, things are more rowdy:

Carnival includes elements of vodou, but also parodies it.  One group, calling itself Société Main Fort, in imitation of a vodou society, danced in a temporary tent structure, set up on one of the downtown streets, performing a mock ritual.  The hounsi (women initiates) all were men, in women's dresses and kerchiefs. 

Carnival also serves to express attitudes not openly expressed generally, such as aggression, sexual attitudes, etc.  A band, roaming the streets at night with large crowds following it, called itself G.B. which could stand for Grand Banda (Big Ass) or Grand Bouzin (Big Prostitute).  The King of this band wore an enormous stuffed behind.  A number of cross-dressing men in the crowd solicited men.  One of our acquaintances was approached by one whom he considered a particularly “nice girl.”  “She” turned out to be an oungan (vodou priest).  On this occasion there was also a large police

 


Continued

Table of Contents, Collection B | Table of Contents, Collection C

Page last revised: July 31, 2007

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